Tuberculosis presenting as endobronchial tumor

Abstract

Endobronchial tuberculosis TB can be present in various forms including ulceration, hyperemia and granulation tissue and rarely as mass lesion. We present a case of TB presenting as endobronchial tumor mimicking lung cancer on bronchoscopic examination. The histology of the tumor showed caseating granuloma and bronchial lavage culture was positive for mycobacterium TB. The patient improved after anti TB treatment. Endobronchial TB is usually a complication of primary pulmonary TB mostly occurring in children but can occur in adults. The most common form of endobronchial TB is mucosal hyperemia and erosions leading to ulceration and granulation tissue. Cough is the most common symptom and the most serious complication is bronchial stenosis. Several treatment modalities have been tried to decrease the incidence of bronchial stenosis including isoniazid inhalation and systemic steroids but results are not convincing. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent this debilitating complication.